The 2019 EIOS Global Technical Meeting (GTM) followed in the footsteps of the successful first GTM held in Geneva in December 2018. While that first meeting focused on technological aspects and defined multiple priority areas, coinciding with the start of EIOS expansion to Member States, the 2019 GTM focused on building and strengthening the EIOS community. Taking place from 12-14 November in Seoul, Republic of Korea, the event brought together a wide range of representatives from Member States, WHO headquarters, country and regional offices, international organizations, researchers, academics, donors, and technology experts.

Over the three days, more than 100 participants from nearly 40 countries around the globe came together to discuss challenges and opportunities around event-based surveillance and early detection. Participants learned about the latest research and technical advancements in this field and gained valuable insight from the range of perspectives brought to the table by partners from across the One Health space. The meeting programme boasted 11 programmatic sessions, offering a large variety of presentations, panel discussions and interactive group work, while still allowing time for constructive networking and informal exchange. Reflective of the initiative's community spirit, the majority of participants played an active role in designing the meeting agenda and bringing it to life.

The 2019 GTM was hosted in collaboration with Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) as well as the WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific (WPRO). It was made possible through funding from the Australian Government's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan.